As a physician specializing in bioidentical hormone therapy, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of hormones on women’s lives. One area where this is particularly evident is in sexual health.
Declining estrogen levels, a natural part of aging, can significantly impact a woman’s libido, leading to decreased desire, painful intercourse, and overall dissatisfaction with her sex life. This is where bioidentical hormone therapy, specifically the use of estradiol, can make a remarkable difference.
The Impact of Estradiol on Libido
Estradiol is a key female hormone responsible for a myriad of functions, including regulating mood, bone health, and, crucially, sexual desire. As women age, their estrogen levels naturally decline, leading to a cascade of symptoms often referred to as menopause. One of the most distressing of these symptoms is a decline in libido.
When estrogen levels drop, it can result in:
- Vaginal dryness: This can make intercourse painful and uncomfortable, deterring sexual activity.
- Decreased blood flow to the genital area: This can reduce sensitivity and arousal.
- Changes in mood: Hormonal fluctuations can impact mood, reducing desire and overall enjoyment of intimacy.
- Body image issues: Weight gain and other physical changes associated with menopause can negatively impact self-esteem and sexual confidence.
By restoring optimal estradiol levels, we can effectively address these issues and help women reclaim their sexual vitality.
While we are focused on Estradiol today, I would be remiss if I did not point out that testosterone also plays a critical role in regulating sexual desire and overall libido in women. Testosterone contributes to heightened clitoral sensitivity, enhancing arousal and the strength of orgasms.
That is why when we see clients complaining of low sexual desire, we like to evaluate all hormone levels. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be a highly effective solution for women struggling with these issues, restoring balance and improving both sexual desire and function.
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy: A Personalized Approach
It’s important to emphasize that bioidentical hormone therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every woman is unique, and her hormonal needs will vary. This is why I believe in a personalized approach that involves a comprehensive evaluation of your overall health and well-being.
Here’s what you can expect when you choose bioidentical hormone therapy with a functional medicine provider like Nava Health:
- Thorough assessment: We will carefully evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and hormone levels to create a customized treatment plan.
- Bioidentical hormone replacement: Bioidentical hormones, such as estradiol, are structurally identical to the hormones your body naturally produces. This ensures optimal effectiveness and minimizes side effects.
- Lifestyle modifications: In addition to hormone therapy, I will provide guidance on lifestyle factors that can impact sexual health, with a focus on stress management and therapies such as nutrition, massage, and acupuncture.
- Regenerative therapies: To address underlying health issues that may contribute to sexual dysfunction, I may recommend regenerative therapies such as acupuncture or IV micronutrient therapy.
Beyond Hormones: A Comprehensive Approach
While hormone therapy is a powerful tool, it’s essential to recognize that sexual health is influenced by a variety of factors. A comprehensive approach that addresses the whole person is key to achieving optimal results.
- Nutrition: Your nutritional needs are unique and change as you age. Meeting with a clinical nutritionist who can personalize recommendations based on your individual needs can be a game changer for women as they move into perimenopause and on to menopause.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve circulation, boost energy levels, and enhance body image.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact libido. Incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation or acupuncture can help manage stress levels.
- Regenerative therapies: These innovative treatments can address underlying physical issues, such as pelvic floor dysfunction or decreased blood flow, that contribute to sexual dysfunction.
Reclaiming Your Desire
Regaining a fulfilling sex life after menopause is entirely possible. By working together, we can identify the root causes of your sexual challenges and develop a personalized plan to help you reclaim your desire.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of low libido or other menopause-related issues, I encourage you to schedule a consultation. Together, we can explore the benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy and create a comprehensive plan to help you feel your best.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns.
As our Associate Medical Director, Dr. Angela De Rosa is integral to the continued education and innovation here at Nava Health. Dr. Angela DeRosa, DO, MBA, CPE, is a dynamic professional on a mission to change the face of women’s health and wellness. As a respected, internationally recognized authority on women’s hormonal health, Dr. DeRosa understands the range of health issues women face leading up to and during menopause, as she was in full-blown menopause by age 35. Dr. DeRosa has more than 25 years of experience in the medical field, both on the pharmaceutical side and in clinical practice.
Dr. DeRosa’s enthusiasm for educating patients on the realities of menopause and the risk factors of hormonal health imbalances has never waned. It was the driving force behind her first bestselling book, A Woman’s Health Survival Guide: How to Prevent Your Doctor From Slowly Killing You. Her book and its controversial title caught the attention of the public, media, and the medical community.
Dr. DeRosa is on the advisory board for the European Menopause and Andropause Society, a member of the International Menopause Society International Society of the Study of Women’s Sexual Health, and a researcher on women’s health issues. Dr. DeRosa is a Midwestern University Clinical Assistant Professor and a Past Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association President.